Diver catches lionfish off Palm Beach reefs

PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. - A large lionfish was caught in local waters over Presidents Day weekend.

A diver, Lee Larkin, caught the caught the lionfish while aboard Narcosis Dive Charters.

The non-native and dangerous fish was caught in a lobster snare on the reefs off of Palm Beach.

The lionfish weighed almost two and a half pounds and was just over seventeen inches long.

These fish have been killing nutrients around South Florida coral reefs. They emit a toxin through their needle-like fins which can harm swimmers and divers. The sting can be extremely painful and cause nausea.